It just works. Iv'e been without the bucket for years. My work is better than its ever been and complaints are few. Dogearing the new way is down to a fine art and certainly helps a lot and saves a lot of time. Even with a dirty applicator, the windows still come out crystal clear, wether or not its a Wagtail or traditional applicator. If it gets that bad I rinse under a tap or just more from my bottle or more rarely, I change the pad over. If you find you are leaving loads of streaks and things even when using a bucket then it's something else you are doing.
The windows I do on the very first house in the morning do not seem any better than the last one in the afternoon.
I am using Ecover now instead of W5. The slip on Ecover is superior but the results are the same or very slightly supior.

If that was the case then you have answered the question I was asking in this thread,..........but.............I dont think people do have a bucket as well. I know you do but I think others just use a bottle.

   Just to reiterate, I have no probs how I work with my trusty bucket, it serves its purpose fine. Just couldnt imagine been without one.
   I would try using a bottle if I thought it would benefit me but I dont see any as my applicators stay more than enough wet between 'dunks' 
   Still, I might give it a go sometime 
 
 I will say this. Tomorrow after work, those who just use a bottle, wash out your applicator in a bowl of hot water and see whether the water turns grey or not

Jim it all depends  what you earn and what time you have..  here is all about quality and  doing a  top job..  where you are it about being pragmatic and  not being slowed  down..if your earning money and your happy and your getting no complaints   stick with what you feel best.. you know your round and  your customers  best..

People are more critical here.... so   you have to invest more quality into the work

Now thats a good idea